Fitness program preps grads to become instructors
- EFN Staff | May 31, 2016
The City of Saskatoon (City), in partnership with the Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and Fitness 2J2, is celebrating the success of Aboriginal students' completion of the Aboriginal Fitness Preparatory Program.
Students from the program were recognized at a graduation ceremony on Thursday, May 19, 2016. Nine students were recognized for their efforts in completing the preparatory program, who are now at various stages of completing the Aboriginal Fitness Certification Program.
With this new partnership and development of the preparatory course, these individuals are at a greater advantage point in successfully becoming fitness instructors. The six-week pilot program was designed to provide candidates with mentorship as they work toward becoming fitness leaders. The course focused on the theory portion of the program and included anatomy, physiology, nutrition, mentorship, and leadership. Students also attended fitness classes at the City Leisure Centres to get exposure to the variety of class options and teaching methods.
Fitness 2J2 facilitated the pre-theory portion of the program held at Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre, which prepared students for the written exam. "Physical fitness empowers people, who in turn empower communities," says Joel Pedersen, Owner of Fitness 2J2.
Read Joel's monthly Fitness 2J2 columns here.
"It is critical that we collectively support our youth to be leaders in all facets of our society. We must normalize indigenous participation and be open to the gifts they have to offer," says Candace Wasacase-Lafferty, Director of Aboriginal Initiatives, U of S.
"The success of the pilot program is in thanks to the partnership of financial and human resources and fitness expertise," says Kevin Kitchen, Community Development Manager, City of Saskatoon.
The City, Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre, and Fitness 2J2 recognize the hard work and dedication of all program graduates and wishes them well in their future.